In 1863, Abraham Lincoln officially set aside the last Thursday of November, “as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father.” As Christians, this day represents more than turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie; it is a reminder of God's grace toward mankind.
In the Old Testament ...
The Mosaic Law set aside three times each year to remember God's provision ... Unleavened Bread or Feast of the Passover (Exodus 12:15-20), Harvest or Pentecost (Leviticus 23:15-21), and the Feast of Ingathering or Tabernacles (Leviticus 23:33-36). The book of Psalms is full of songs written with 'thanksgiving' as their theme ... they contain beautifully written expressions of gratitude toward God.
The New Testament calls us to be thankful ...
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6
Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men. 1 Timothy 2:1
Of all the wonderful blessings for which we can be thankful, one is by far the greatest ... our Heavenly Father’s gift of His Son. On Calvary's cross, Jesus paid our sin debt so a holy Judge could forgive our trespasses and grant us eternal life. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift. (2 Corinthians 9:15)
In this life, there are many things we can complain about but Scripture tells us to give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18) As society becomes more secular, the actual giving of thanks to God on 'Thanksgiving' is overlooked, leaving only feasting and football.
Remember, pilgrim ...
Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:15-17
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